Residents warned to leave as firefighters tackle emergency blazes in WA

Western Australian firefighters are tackling two emergency bushfires in the state’s south that are threatening lives and property.

On Friday evening, residents in Jerramungup and southern Hopetoun areas were told to take immediate action to protect themselves.

Both fires were “moving fast in a south easterly direction,” a Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) spokesperson said.

“We’ve got crews on the scene now fighting those fires.”

The emergency warning extended to the coastline west of Hopetoun main village, which itself was under Watch and Act instructions.

It bordered Hamersley Drive to the north, and Whale Bay Drive to the east and west.

In Jerramungup the emergency warning applied to the southern part of the township.

Residents were told to leave if the route was clear, or to take shelter within their homes.

“Go to a room in your home away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape,” the DFES advised.

“Choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry.”